Joanna James
Swanky shopping mega centres and their scores of designer brands and flagship stores may dominate the shopping scene of modern-day Dubai, but back in the day, it was the bustling souks that made trading possible in the emirate. Stroll a souk or two and enjoy a shopping experience like no other.
If there was one souk that most certainly deserved a spot on your compact Dubai itinerary, that would undoubtedly be the Gold Souk — arguably the most famous marketplace in all of Dubai and one of the largest gold bazaars in Arabia. Aptly named and aptly fitting into Dubai's "city of gold" tenor, the 300-something retailers and their dazzling displays of glimmering gold are visited every day by tourists and locals alike, especially by well-heeled lassies hunting for their next piece of glamorous jewellery.
In the vicinity, just south of Gold Souk, is a world of aroma, fragrance, and an explosion of colours — the renowned Deira Spice Souk. Treat yourself to a delightful journey of Dubai's authentic, locally grown spices, herbs, rice, and fruits, that are bound to set the culinary enthusiast in you free. Feast your eyes on the profusion of striking colours, take in the breathtaking fragrances and let yourself lose in the atmospheric scene. Foodie or not, at these patently low prices at Spice Souk, it would be a pity not to pick up something to take back home.
Those craving a souk-shopping experience but would prefer a less than bustling ambience, make your way to Souk Madinat, where you are afforded the atmosphere and elements of a traditional Arab souk but in a more contemporary and laidback setting. The labyrinth of ambient laneways of the waterfront marketplace is lined with stalls bursting with chic souvenirs, fine art, and sculptures, absolutely spoiling you for choice. Finally, complement your retail therapy with a delightful meal by the waterside.
Shopping at Al Seef in the heritage quarter of the Fahidi historical district is sure to take you back to the heyday of the exotic emirate that is Dubai. Everything from the facades that line the wide shopping streets down to every minute detail you could find in this ambient souk is intricately designed to give you a vibe of old-world Dubai. No matter whether you are after traditional Arabian handiwork or an international designer label, this fascinating marketplace has got it all.
Get a load of the must-visit, world-renowned Burj Khalifa and cross the tranquil waters of Burj Lake over the footbridge for some delightful shopping at Souk Al Bahar. Amongst Dubai's host of old-world souks, this incredible waterfront marketplace strikes the perfect blend of a traditional souk and a contemporary shopping centre. Vacationing tourists could also find a clutch of elegant Palm Jumeirah hotels in the vicinity, including the likes of Avani Palm View Dubai, to further complement your retail therapy.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
